Chemsex

How can SASH support you?

We understand that seeking support for chemsex can be daunting, and takes a lot of courage to take the first step to asking for help. As with all of our services, we offer our support for chemsex in a non-judgemental setting, and will work with you at a pace you’re comfortable with.

What is chemsex?

Chemsex, also referred to as P&P (Party and Play) or H&H (High and Horny) is the practice of engaging in often high-risk sexual behaviours and activities whilst under the influence of drugs, most commonly Methamphetamine, mephedrone and G (GBL or GHB).

Chemsex typically involves multiple sexual partners or groups and is commonly arranged through Geo-locator dating/hook-up apps. 

• What substances are typically used in chemsex?
• What support is available for someone involved in chemsex?
• Partnership connections

What substances are typically used in chemsex?

• GHB and GBL
  Also referred to as gina, G, liquid ecstasy, and date rape drugs.
  These substances are sedatives, which slow down brain activity, making you feel more relaxed and even sleepy, with GBL often being 2-3 times stronger than GHB. They're full names are gammahydroxybutyrate and gammabutyrolactone.
• Methamphetamine
  Also known as crystal meth, tina, and crystal.
  This substance is a stimulant, which can speed up messages between the brain and the body, impacting alertness, speech, reactions and mood.
• Mephedrone
  Also called drone, meow meow and meph.
  Like methamphetamine, mephedrone is another stimulant substance, causing the same sped up behaviours.

What support is available for someone involved in chemsex?

When engaging in chemsex, you may find you either need a break, don’t quite know how to make the choices you want, or just need advice on how to engage in it safely.

Whether you’re in deep within the chemsex scene or not, we’re here to help you with any questions and support you may need.

We provide support around:

• Chemsex and safety
• Needle exchange and chemsex packs
• Harm reduction advice/information
• Support to GUM services/testing
• STI support and advice 
• Substance misuse support and advice (through Turning Point Central London and Antidote)
• 1:1 structured support
• Support for those living with HIV

Partnership connections

Our partners Turning Point and London Friend also have a joint chemsex support service, Antidote, which we work with closely. Together we can provide support tailored to your needs for both sexual health and substance use.

Speak to SASH if you are experiencing issues with your sexual health and chemsex use.